[GirlWithHope]

I want to look for a job but I worry it is useless, no references, no real job history just a handful of part time jobs 20 years ago! I haven’t been able to volunteer the last 15 to 20 years so yeah! It isn’t even like I could say I was raising children since I don’t have children. Anyone have any thoughts?

[Skeezyks]

Yes, your situation certainly does present a number of challenges. There's no getting around that. My thinking would be that one possible first step might be for you to talk to one of the employment counselors at your state's Job Services office & see if they could be of help to you in finding an entry-level position. They may also be able to make a referral for you to your area's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services or some similar sort of vocational assistance services for people with disabilities (if you qualify). They may also offer job seeking skills training classes which could, potentially, be particularly useful to you given your situation.

[GirlWithHope]

Thank you.

Originally Posted by GirlWithHope

I want to look for a job but I worry it is useless, no references, no real job history just a handful of part time jobs 20 years ago! I haven’t been able to volunteer the last 15 to 20 years so yeah! It isn’t even like I could say I was raising children since I don’t have children. Anyone have any thoughts?

I also haven't worked in a long time, and am in the process of looking for work (in preparing).

Could you maybe volunteer somewhere first? It would give you a taste of a schedule and routine and you could put your supervisor down as a reference.

I like what Skeezyks said about getting vocational support, too.

[Discombobulated]

I second what Wovengalaxy says about considering volunteering. It will get you experience, confidence, and references as well as something to talk about at an interview.

I was in your situation a few years ago and it was volunteering that got me kickstarted, it was also great fun and I made some great friends.

I would also recommend applying for temp positions as they often overlook lack of experience, it's often enough to get you your foot on the ladder.

[The_little_didgee]

It is definitely possible to return to work. I didn't work for over a decade. It was humiliating living on the Ontario Disability Support Program. I had enough of poverty and not having a purpose, so I decided to work part-time to ease myself back into the world. I did this, because I wanted to make sure I could cope and keep my job.

My job search was very specific. I made sure to look for work that fit my personality and strengths. Most service and entry level jobs are not appropriate for me, so I made sure to stay away from those. I found my place in manufacturing.

After working part-time for 3 years I decided to go to a community college in southwestern Ontario. The diploma program I was in offered optional paid co-op placements. After my 8 month placement I was offered full-time work at the same company.

Good luck.

[Prycejosh1987]

Then you need to make your qualities that you do have stand out. You have to make the CV stand out. You also need to use Independence and references from maybe a tutor or family member. Bosses are usually very understanding.

[Gakonda]

Hi! Well I think maybe the best way to from where to start is to start study something new where you have a perspective to build a career? Maybe It should not be something big but at least you will have a good job.